Chance the Rapper, known for his role as a beloved Coach on NBC’s The Voice, is instantly recognizable not only for his musical talent and insightful mentorship but also for his signature style. A key element of this style is his ever-present baseball cap adorned with the number “3”. You might have noticed this iconic hat in countless public appearances, but have you ever wondered, “Why Does Chance Wear 3?”. The answer to this question is quite fascinating, revealing a blend of personal history, artistic expression, and sentimental significance.
Chance the Rapper’s affinity for hats actually dates back to his teenage years. In an interview with GQ, he recounted his high school days where wearing caps was a form of rebellion. He explained, “I used to always rock a cap when I was in high school and get them taken away. It was an excessive amount. Like, so often that at the end of each school year, there would be a box of all the confiscated caps. After they gave back a few caps to other kids, they would just give me the box because the rest were all my hats. So I think, in one part, it’s a rebellion,”
While his general love for hats has roots in his youth, the specific “3” symbol gained prominence with his critically acclaimed third mixtape, Coloring Book, released in 2016. Chance revealed, “I wanted to put something else on the hat. And so I decided to do ‘3’. I just thought that that made the most sense because it was the third project.” Initially, the project was even titled The Magnificent Coloring Book, but Chance felt the lengthy title looked awkward on a hat. The simple and bold “3” became the perfect emblem for this pivotal work in his discography.
Beyond representing his third major project, the “3” hat carries deeper, more personal meanings for Chance. He elaborated on this sentiment, stating, “I’ve rationalized it to myself that it stands for the third mixtape, the holy trinity, and the three-pronged family of myself, my daughter, and my girl.” Thus, the “3” is not just a number; it’s a multifaceted symbol representing his artistic journey, spiritual beliefs, and the core of his family life. It’s a constant reminder of these important pillars in his life, making the “3” hat more than just a fashion statement, but a meaningful personal emblem.
So, the next time you see Chance the Rapper sporting his iconic “3” hat, whether on The Voice or in other appearances, you’ll know that it represents much more than just a number. It’s a symbol deeply intertwined with his past, his artistry, and his personal values, making it a truly signature part of his identity.
